Thunder defensive rating decreased nine points without Andre Roberson

As modern NBA offenses continue to grow stronger and faster, defensive schemes have lacked the creativity and attention offensive ones have received.

Yet the importance of defense is more necessary than before because of the high powered offenses we’re now seeing.

The Thunder are currently allowing 103.2 points per 100 possessions, which gives them a top 10 defensive rating. Much of the credit can be doled out to the two powerhouse defenders on the team, Andre Roberson and Steven Adams.

Unfortunately, Oklahoma has been without Roberson since December 29 and his absence has greatly impacted their defensive prowess.

Since Andre Roberson went out, the Thunder have the 27th ranked defense in the NBA. Think they need him?